WHGH invites community to Indigenous Information and Craft Market

West Haldimand General Hospital (WHGH) and Norfolk General Hospital (NGH) are committed to truth and reconciliation and to improving how Indigenous patients and families experience health care.

As part of that commitment, both hospitals are inviting the public to Indigenous Information and Craft Markets ahead of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30.

The markets will give community members an opportunity to meet Indigenous vendors, organizations and service providers. Visitors can shop, ask questions and learn about Indigenous health, wellness and support services available in the region.

Representatives and vendors from Six Nations of the Grand River and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation will be among those taking part.

The markets will be held:

• West Haldimand General Hospital: Monday, September 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the front lawn near the main entrance.
• Norfolk General Hospital: Tuesday, September 29, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the North/South Conference Room on the main level.

Visitors can purchase art, handmade items and other goods directly from Indigenous vendors. Community members who plan to shop are encouraged to bring cash.

The events are one part of the hospitals’ ongoing work to listen, learn and strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities.

This work also includes the development of a multi-year Truth and Reconciliation Action Plan with First Peoples Group and the Indigenous Reconciliation Working Group. The group includes Indigenous community members from Six Nations of the Grand River and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, along with hospital representatives. The plan will help guide the hospitals’ response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action related to health and health care, while reducing barriers and improving care for Indigenous patients and families.

September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. It is a day to honour Survivors, their families and communities, and to reflect on the history and ongoing impacts of residential schools.

WHGH and NGH encourage community members to attend one of the markets and wear orange on September 30 as a sign of respect for Survivors and a shared commitment to reconciliation.

Everyone is welcome to attend.